At Gan Israel, we offer a Diverse program, with Powerhouse activities, Dedicated and nurturing staff, that will give your children an incredible summer experience!

We know that you put a lot of thought into camp, we all want the best summer ever for our child/ren. We want a camp that will keep our children safe while giving them the summer they'll remember for a lifetime. A camp that will give my children the best summer ever in an environment that fosters growth in areas of friendships, confidence and optimism. We also want a camp that focuses on professional development in areas of our children's creativity and athletic progress.

At Camp Gan Israel our goal is to combine all of the above to give your children the summer of a lifetime in a fun and exciting Jewish environment. Our program includes an array of sports, specialties, activities and trips together with an amazing team of dedicated staff, all to bring out the best in your child. Our camp is located at the NEW Gottesman RTW Academy Campus in Randolph NJ.

Gan Israel campers are grouped into “bunks” by age. Small camper ­to­ staff ratio is kept to ensure maximum attention to each child.

Our program cultivates Jewish values with a focus on responsibility, love for another, and Jewish pride. Various themes are often incorporated in the program and many activities and contests surround these themes.

Directors

Rabbi Mendel & Chana Stiefel

Mendel Stiefel has been co-directing Camp Gan Israel since 2014. In summer of 2017 his wife Chana Stiefel joined as co-director. Growing up, Mendel attended Gan Israel both as a camper and counselor in many different countries including a resident camp in Ukraine for impoverished children. During the off season, he acts as youth director at the Chabad of Northwest NJ, doing holiday and Shabbat programs, teen programming, as well as directing an exciting winter camp. He also teaches part time at the Gottesman RTW Academy. Chana Stiefel grew up in Rockaway New Jersey. During the off season she acts as the assistant director of the Chabad Early Learning Center in Rockaway NJ. Last summer, due to the growth of the camp, Chana joined as co-director of CGI. They live together with their 3 children in White Meadow Lake, NJ. “We see it as a great opportunity to be involved in making memorable summers for our community children that are sure to last a lifetime!

RABBI MENDEL DUBOV

Mendel has been co-director at Gan Israel Day Camps since 2014. Throughout his youth, Mendel attended and worked at Gan Israel camps, including a number of summers in the UK, Australia, and Canada. In his other capacity, Rabbi Dubov lives with his family in Sparta, NJ, serving as the rabbi and director of Chabad of Sussex County. He is also an author and frequent contributor to Chabad.org. "The positive experience and Jewish exposure made possible by Gan Israel Day Camps is something truly amazing. It is a privilege to be part of the Gan Israel team".

Our Staff

Kiddie Camp

Our staff all well trained and experienced teachers. Some of our staff are from the faculty at the Gottesman RTW Academy. They are picked because of their dedication and love to the children the entire year, and because of their familiarity with many of the campers and their families. The teachers are also well trained with the safety requirements in this specific campus. The assistants to the main teachers are carefully chosen from many applications that come through to us, allowing for the most responsible and experienced teens of our community.

Junior Division & VIP

Child development is the most significant ingredient in a healthy camp experience. This is why our staff are the real secret to our success. Our experienced counselors are known for their personal warmth and ability to care for each child as an individual. Many staff members return year after year, lending experience and continuity to all programs. Each staff member is trained in the skills required for their position and are carefully chosen to be positive role models for the children. Legal background checks are all performed prior to hiring. At Gan Israel, the love of the staff for the children is surpassed only by the children’s love for them. Friendships between campers and counselors have been known to last a lifetime.

Facility

Our camp is located at the Gottesman RTW Academy, a new state-of-the-art facility in Randolph, New Jersey.

The beautiful 17-acre campus is very well suited to host a full array of summer camp activities, from the spacious outdoor sports facilities to a magnificent indoor gym and theatre.

We also go swimming at nearby pools that are a 3 minute bus ride away. (YMCA for kiddie camp and CCM for the older divisions)

Email or call us to schedule a tour.

Transportation

We provide door-to-door transportation to many surrounding communities, including but not limited to: West Orange, Livingston, Morristown, Rockaway and the broader Randolph area. Chartered school buses and and certified drivers are used for all transportations. (For smaller communities we use camp vans with certified drivers covered with our camp insurance). Cell-phone connection to the dispatcher and drivers are required by us for utmost efficiency and security. The door-to-door transportation for Day Camp is charged separately from camp tuition. If you live outside of one of the communities listed above, and want to know if we serve your community/zip code area with our door-to-door service, please call or email us.

Cost of door-to-door transportation for entire summer is $550

Cost of door-to-door transportation per week is $80

Lunch

A wide variety of nutritious and delicious lunches are served daily to the campers - enhancing the overall camp experience while easing the burden on you. All food is strictly Kosher under the MetroWest Vaad.

Mealtimes at CGI is an integral part of the daily schedule with lively songs, cheers, and meaningful Blessings accompanying us each time we sit to eat!

Have a look at our lunch menu for summer 2018/5778.

Dates & Rates 2018

FAQ'S

Do you provide before and after care?Before and After-care will be provided on demand. Please contact us for details.

How religious is Camp Gan Israel? CGI is a totally non-judgemental environment made up of campers from all Jewish backgrounds. An individual's level of observance is not stressed. All children enjoy a shared Jewish spirit through songs and projects.

Who do I contact with questions, problems, suggestions etc?Please contact Rabbi Mendel Dubov in regard to administration, fees, and legalities. For issues concerning the general programming and staff, please contact Rabbi Mendel Stiefel. The head-counselor and Mini CGI director will be available during drop-off and pick-up to discuss your child's specific needs and requirements and answer any questions.

Must campers wear a camp T-shirt every day?We require that all campers wear a Camp Gan Israel T-shirt on trips days. Each camper receives a T-shirt before camp begins. Since all camp staff and campers wear camp shirts, we are instantly recognizable to each other. While on field trips camp shirts distinguish our campers and staff from other visitors. Caps will be available for purchase before the start of camp.

How does my camper find a lost item?Please mark all belongings with your camper's name. This is very important since shirts, backpacks, etc. are identical and individual items are difficult to identify without a label. Lost & Found items are available each day after camp. Please contact us in writing or by phone regarding specific items.

How do I arrange to pick up my camper during the camp day?If you have to pick up your camper during the day, please notify our office. Once we are aware of your arrival time, we can arrange to have your camper ready for you. Please note that no camper will be released to ANYONE without written permission.

What if my child does not want to participate in a particular activity?No camper will be forced to participate in any activity. However, we do urge campers to try all activities and take advantage of the complete program offered at Camp Gan Israel.

What does my camper need to bring each day?Campers should bring a drink and two snacks. (Please send only dairy or pareve lunches, no glass please) Additional Water is provided to the campers. We strongly suggest that parents send their children in closed tow sneakers for their own safety. Campers should bring a bathing suit and towel on swiiming days.

How often does my child drink water at camp each day?Drinking water is always available and given to the campers throughout the day.

How can I speak with my child's counselor?A call to the camp office 862-244-3420 will answer most questions. Since counselors are constantly supervising groups and activities, messages will be taken at the camp office. Please leave your name and evening phone number and the counselor will return your call as soon as possible.

How can I speak with a Camp Director?The directors are available to answer your questions and discuss your concerns, by calling or texting 862-244-3420. Emails can be sent to office@ganisrael.org

How can I become more involved with Camp Gan Israel?The camp encourages the involvement of "bunk parents" (just like a class parent in school). If you are interested please inform the Director.

Safety

Gan Israel Day Camps is licensed and accredited by the State of New Jersey. NJ Camp Licensing assures that current practices at your child’s camp reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation. Our Camp promotes growth and fun in an environment committed to safety. We review every part of our operation - from staff qualifications and training to emergency management.

NJ Camp Licensing standards require a staff screening system which may include criminal background checks where permitted by law. When talking to a camp director as you consider enrolling your child, ask what the screening process for that camp includes.

How can I verify that this camp is NJ Licensed?

Parents can (and should) verify the accreditation status of any camp at any time. A copy of the certificate is should be available upon request.

At Gan Israel we strive to improve our camp every day of the year. Below are just some of the NEW things you will see at Gan Israel this coming summer

Visiting Camp

Open HousesCome by to one of our scheduled open houses! See, hear and get answers on what an experience at Gan Israel will mean for your child. Contact us for details.

Want to schedule a parlor meeting at your place? Call us at 862-244-3420 and we will be happy to come!

Before CampCall us to arrange a tour of our camp site. From our spacious soccer field and basketball court to our beautiful indoor gym, there will always be something to do - rain or shine. Most importantly, we invite you to experience the warm environment that your child will be part of during the summer.

During CampStay tuned for the parents night! An evening during camp when parents get a glimpse into life at CGI. Dates to be announced.

To provide a safe, fun and uplifting summer day camp experience for Jewish children; where a love for Judaism is taught through fun, joy, and a true love for every staff member, camper and each member of their families.

Jewish Pride

Gan Israel campers are imbued with a deep sense of pride in their Jewish heritage and a love for the land of Israel. Weekly Judaic themes are taught through exciting activities, stories, songs, games and contests, which are part of the unique Gan Israel experience; all in addition to talent shows, games shows, Challah baking, Shabbos parties, arts & crafts, and cooking. Combined with group discussions and educational programs, these activities bring to life the beauty and value of our tradition.